SUMMARYObjective: This study examined the effect of Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation on the microtensile bond strength (µTBS) of a three-step etch-andrinse and a two-step self-etch adhesive to sound and caries-affected dentin.Methods: Sixteen freshly extracted human molars with occlusal dentin caries were used. The caries lesion was removed by one of the following methods: conventional treatment with burs or Er,Cr:YSGG laser (Waterlase MD, Biolase). The adhesive systems (AdheSE, Ivoclar Vivadent and Scotchbond Multi Purpose, 3M ESPE) were applied to the entire tooth surface according to the manufacturers' instructions. Resin composites were applied to the adhesivetreated dentin surfaces and light-cured. Each tooth was sectioned into multiple beams with the "non-trimming" version of the microtensile test. The specimens were subjected to microtensile forces (BISCO Microtensile Tester, BISCO). The data was analyzed by three-way ANOVA and independent t-tests (p=0.05).
Results
Clinical RelevanceThe microtensile bond strength of a three-step etch-and-rinse and a two-step self-etch adhesive is not negatively affected by Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation in sound and caries-affected dentin. system and type of treated dentin. The self-etch system revealed lower µTBS values, both with conventional and laser treatment techniques, compared to the etch-and-rinse adhesive in sound and caries-affected dentin (p<0.05).Conclusion: Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation did not negatively affect the bonding performance of adhesive systems to sound and caries-affected dentin.